Thujopsis spp.
Hiba
Overview
Thujopsis spp. is a genus in the cypress family represented by a single species, T. dolabrata, the hiba or false arborvitae, native to the cool, humid forests of Japan. It is an evergreen conifer that grows slowly into a dense, conical tree, reaching 30-70 feet (9-21 m) in cultivation and taller in its native range, often branching low or forming several stems. The foliage is held in broad, flattened sprays of thick, scale-like leaves, glossy deep green above and marked beneath with bold, chalk-white stomatal bands; the individual scales are hatchet-shaped, a feature reflected in the species name. Small, woody, rounded cones ripen on the branches. Bark is reddish-brown and peels in strips on older trunks. Plants tolerate shade better than most conifers and grow in cool, moist, sheltered conditions, but they are slow, intolerant of heat, drought, and dry wind, and slow to recover from damage. Several compact and variegated cultivars, such as the dwarf forms, are grown where space is limited.
Native Range
Thujopsis dolabrata is native to Japan, where it grows in cool, humid mountain forests on the main islands. It is cultivated and harvested for its rot-resistant, aromatic timber.Suggested Uses
Used as a specimen evergreen, in mixed conifer and woodland plantings, and as a screen or backdrop in cool, sheltered gardens. Dwarf and variegated cultivars suit smaller gardens and containers.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height30' - 70'
Width/Spread10' - 20'
Reaches mature size in approximately 30 years
Bloom Information
As a conifer, Thujopsis spp. bears cones rather than flowers. Small pollen cones release pollen in spring, and rounded woody seed cones ripen later in the year. The cones are scattered among the foliage sprays.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
glossy green above, white-banded beneathGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow in full sun to part shade in cool, moist, humus-rich, free-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Shelter plants from hot sun, drought, and drying wind, which scorch the foliage. Water during dry spells, especially while young, and mulch to keep the roots cool and moist. Growth is slow, so little pruning is needed beyond shaping. The species is hardy to USDA zone 5 and grows steadily in cool-summer regions.Pruning
Prune lightly in late winter or spring to shape young plants or remove damaged growth. Cut only into foliage-bearing wood, as bare old wood does not resprout. Mature trees need little pruning beyond removing dead branches.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons